Distributors transporting commercial goods into or out of the European Union (EU) must have an EORI number to conduct themselves legally, which begets the questions: what is an EORI number and how do I acquire one?
What is an EORI number?
EORI number refers to the Economic Operator Registration and Identification number and is a mandatory requirement for individuals or dealers undertaking custom activities in the EU.
This is mandatory for dealers moving goods:
- between Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) or the Isle of Man and any other country (including EU countries)
- between Great Britain and Northern Ireland
- between Great Britain and the Channel Islands
- between Northern Ireland and non-EU countries
Explaining EORI format
EORI numbers are 12-digit identifiers, and in the UK, they begin with the letters ‘GB.’ There are two different formats for EORI numbers, depending on whether a business is VAT registered.
EORI for VAT-registered businesses in the UK
Begins with a country code ‘GB’, which is followed with the business’ VAT number and then by ‘000’.
EORI for non-VAT-registered businesses in the UK
Begins with a country code ‘GB’, which is followed by a unique number provided by HMRC.
EORI numbers and their importance to trade
Introduced in 2009, the EORI number is a critical identifier for customs involving the import and export of products and services external to the EU zone. The existence of a universal identification system across the EU has streamlined trade, making life easier for economic operators and customs authorities alike. With EORI numbers, businesses can conduct trade quickly and without the necessity for time-consuming checks.
Who needs an EORI number?
According to the Office Of National Statistics, UK exports to the EU fell by £20bn in 2022, but this doesn’t preclude the importance of getting an EORI number. Since Brexit, UK businesses have been required by law to carry an EORI number for trade between the EU and UK (with the exception of trade between Ireland and Northern Ireland).
Whether you’re a limited company, sole trader or partnership, you will require an EORI number for customs procedures and you will also need a Export Health Certificate if you are distributing products of animal origin.
What will happen if I don’t have an EORI number?
If a person or trader attempts to import goods into or out of the EU without a EORI number, the customs authority may seize the consignment until the business is able to produce a valid EORI number. Fortunately, customs will not destroy their wares, but it will cause a significant hold-up at the border.
This is why obtaining an EORI number should be a prerequisite to importing or exporting goods. It’s paramount that dealers have an EORI number before placing orders and before the consignment has left its country of origin.
How do I get an EORI number?
Obtaining an EORI number is free of charge. To apply for an EORI number in the UK you must launch an application on the HMRC website. Expect to wait 3-5 working days to obtain the number following your full submission.
You may also check whether you have been allocated an EORI number or initiate a validation request via the European Commission website.
Check with the experts
Obtaining an EORI number is a crucial step in exporting any goods in and out of the EU. If you are still unsure, it’s worth discussing the matter with a professional who will help you through the documentation.